SACRAMENTO — California Gov. Gavin Newsom called for an overhaul of Democrats' political strategy on Saturday, saying the party is “getting crushed” by Republicans in part because they are too timid, often forced to play defense while Republicans “dominate with illusion.” Speaking at the Texas Tribune Festival in Austin,...
Fresno Delegation Headed to Armenia on Medical Relief Mission
A group of medical professionals is scheduled to depart Fresno Yosemite International Airport on Saturday morning, traveling halfway around the world to help those in need. They originally planned to leave Friday only to have their flight canceled. It is the seventh Fresno Medical Mission-Armenia, arranged by Armenian Honorary...
Enviros Dismayed After Gov. Newsom Vetoes Arambula’s Air Bill
A bill that supporters said would help clean up Central Valley air was vetoed by Gov. Gavin Newsom on Thursday, and environmentalists aren't happy about it. Newsom said no to AB 2550, authored by Assemblyman Joaquin Arambula, D-Fresno. The bill would have required the California Air Resources Board to...
Dems’ Criticism of DA Smittcamp Is Straight From Trump Playbook
If you can't beat them at the ballot box, impugn their integrity. Here in Fresno County, local Democrats are borrowing from Donald Trump's playbook. The local party held a news conference Wednesday morning in front of the criminal courthouse to complain about District Attorney Lisa Smittcamp's integrity. They questioned...
Fresno DA and Sheriff-Elect Could Serve An Extra Two Years
A bill awaiting Gov. Gavin Newsom's signature would add two years to the terms of Fresno County District Attorney Lisa Smittcamp and Sheriff-elect John Zanoni. Passed by the state Assembly and Senate, AB 759 would move the election for the DA and sheriff in all counties from the year...
Councilman’s Plan to End Fresno’s $5 Park Entry Fee Failed. Here’s Why.
Visitors to places like Storyland/Playland, the Fresno Chaffee Zoo, and Woodward Park will continue paying a $5 entry fee for vehicles. More actually, since the kiosks only accept credit cards which charge an additional fee. Councilman Miguel Arias wanted to eliminate those fees, calling it a "double tax" since...
Fresno Drivers Show Why They’re Really Bad
Thanks to a federal grant, Fresno police swarmed the streets on Monday looking for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians breaking the law. Earlier this year, the website QuoteWizard ranked Fresno drivers as seventh-worst in the nation based on collisions, DUIs, speeding, and traffic citations. Based on the 176 citations issued...
Fresno Councilman in Court on Extortion Charge. His Attorney Seeks Dismissal.
Fresno City Council President Nelson Esparza appeared in court Tuesday morning but did not enter a plea on two criminal counts accusing him of attempting to extort the then city attorney. "I continue to be very humbled by the outpouring of community support that we've received and all the...
Fresno Leader: ‘Marxists’ Will Control Redistricting After Newsom Action
After complaints of unfairness in redistricting Fresno County political lines, an independent commission will make those determinations instead. Gov. Gavin Newsom announced on Sunday that he signed AB 2030 by Assemblyman Joaquin Arambula, D-Fresno. It establishes an independent commission to draw future Board of Supervisor district boundaries. “I’m sincerely grateful...
Fresno GOP, Dems on Common Ground in Opposing Local Ballot Measure
In the era of political bitterness, the Fresno County Republican and Democratic parties found something they agree upon — opposition to Measure C. The $7 billion sales tax for county transportation is on the ballot this November for a 30-year renewal (2027-2057). It needs a yes vote from two-thirds...